Elder-Beerman closing disappoints local mall officials

Credit: DaytonDailyNews

Miami Valley Centre Mall officials said the closure and liquidation of all Bon-Ton stores is disappointing for the local shopping center.

The mall, located in Piqua, issued a statement today after Bon-Ton Stores Inc. officials announced a joint bidder, including a group of the bankrupt retail chain's bondholders, won an auction for the company's asset. Elder-Beerman opened in Piqua in 1988 – one of three original anchor stores in place when the mall opened to the public that year.

» Elder-Beerman history: A journey from simple downtown dry goods store

“As owners of the mall since 1993 we have seen many changes in retail both locally and nationally. The Mid-America Management Corporation’s commitment to the mall and the city of Piqua remains as strong as ever” the mall group said in a statement.

Mid-America is in talks with other businesses about locating at the mall, according to a statement.

Bon-Ton employs about 24,000 people. The company operates roughly 250 stores in 23 states under the Bon-Ton, Bergner’s, Boston Store, Carson’s, Elder-Beerman, Herberger’s and Younkers brands.

» CONTINUED COVERAGE: 5 retailers closing stores in Ohio this year

Most Elder-Beerman stores are located within local malls, so closures would have a detrimental effect on multiple shopping centers. Elder-Beerman has stores in Piqua, Huber Heights, the Mall at Fairfield Commons in Beavercreek, the Kettering Towne Center, among others in Ohio. The stores employ hundreds of workers in the region.

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